Two more appointments announced as Munster coaching group takes shape

Former England lock Alex Codling has been appointed as forwards coach of Munster for the 2025/26 season on a full-time basis after serving as a consultant for much of this campaign.

The much-travelled Codling joined the province in November last year, working with the squad in tandem with his role with Ireland Women.

Codling has coached all around Europe for the best part of two decades, working in Wales, England, Ireland and France, and is a renowned lineout guru. Having previously worked with Ulster, he returned to Ireland after taking a long break from the game after his dismissal as head coach of Newcastle at the start of last year.

Codling’s most high-profile appointment was as an assistant to Eddie Jones with England in the summer of 2021.

Codling will begin his new role on October 1st after he completes his time with Ireland at the Women’s Rugby World Cup. During the pre-season period, the role of forwards coach will be covered by incoming head coach Clayton McMillan, who will be supported by Elite Player Development Officer Tommy O’Donnell.

Munster and the IRFU have also confirmed that Brad Mayo has been appointed as the province’s new Head of Athletic Performance.

Mayo, who will take up his new role this summer, has worked with the Brumbies, Bay of Plenty, the Chiefs, Glasgow Warriors and most recently was Head of Athletic Performance with New Zealand Super Rugby side, The Hurricanes.

Last season, Mayo also worked with McMillan in the role of S&C coach for the All Blacks XV during their Northern Hemisphere tour.

Munster Rugby General Manager Ian Costello said: “Alex’s impact since he began working with us in November has been excellent and we are delighted that he will be back with us for the 2025/26 season.

“We also look forward to welcoming Brad to Munster this summer. Brad has worked in elite environments all over the world and I’m sure he will be a huge addition to the high-performance team.

“Securing the services of Alex and Brad in conjunction with the arrival of Clayton adds to a top-class coaching and performance support team as we look forward to the new season.”